Smart Energy Plan project boosts winter reliability for Ameren Missouri customers
Project supports fuel source upgrades to Audrain Energy Center
The Audrain Energy Center, located outside of Vandalia, Missouri, is one of Ameren Missouri's largest natural gas generation facilities, with a capacity of nearly 600 megawatts (MW). On-demand natural gas generation, like the Audrain Energy Center, is critical for supporting grid reliability when customers need it the most. Unfortunately, natural gas supply constraints have historically limited the ability of these types of facilities to generate power during the most challenging winter conditions. To increase reliability at its energy center in Audrain County, Ameren Missouri is upgrading the plant to run on a second fuel source designed to overcome these challenges.
Work is underway on the dual-fuel upgrade at the Audrain Energy Center.
The strategic upgrade, part of Ameren Missouri's Smart Energy Plan, will convert all eight combustion turbine generators at the Audrain Energy Center to dual-fuel capability, enabling them to run on either natural gas or diesel fuel oil. This flexibility is critical because the pipeline serving the facility often faces curtailments during extreme cold, as residential and commercial heating demands soar. Adding a fuel oil backup allows these units to continue generating electricity even when gas supplies tighten, safeguarding reliability for customers on frigid winter days.
"Beyond reliability, the benefits of this conversion are substantial," said Jeff Moore, director of Renewables & CTG Operations for Ameren Missouri. "We're adding roughly 700 megawatts of accredited winter capacity, addressing both immediate and long-term energy needs for our region. This extra capacity helps us avoid supply shortages like those experienced in 2021 and 2022 in the South and on the East Coast. By taking these steps, Ameren is working to protect our customers from service interruptions."
Missouri-based MC Industrial was selected to carry out this project, continuing Ameren’s commitment to support in-state businesses through the Smart Energy Plan. The company expects to employ an average of 50-60 workers throughout construction. In addition to MC Industrial, this project includes 10 other Missouri-based suppliers and subcontractors.
Work on the upgrades at the energy center is underway, with commissioning phases scheduled throughout the coming year. The upgrades are expected to be completed by the end of 2026, ensuring the upgraded facility will be ready before the heart of the next winter season.
Ameren Missouri’s investment in this project demonstrates a firm commitment to keeping energy reliable even during the harshest winter conditions. By taking this proactive approach, the company reinforces the strength of the grid and offers reassurance that homes will stay warm and businesses will continue to operate smoothly when demand is at its highest.
To learn more about Ameren Missouri's Smart Energy Plan, please visit AmerenMissouri.com/plan.